Fireside Talk Radio

Award-winning author and pastor, Andy Clapp, returns to talk to Cathy about how to refresh our own souls. He shares 3 tips, which he and mutual friend Michelle Medlock Adams call, "Plant the Word, Pray the Word, Work the Word." Plus, he shares a personal story about how when he forgave, his life turned around immediately. Wow! So much scholarly insight and practical, personal help in less than 30 minutes. Plus he's funny! Yep, he's a Fireside kinda guy.

Speaker, award-winning author, scholar, pastor, and down home guy, Andy Clapp joins Cathy to talk about how we claim joy this Spring. Or anytime. It seems like God wants us talking, especially in the church, about how much people are suffering right now. “You know, Jesus had to withdraw from the crowds at times and pray,” explains Andy, “If He needed that connection with the Father, how much more do we need it?” Jesus is more than a story you hear at Easter. His life, His death, and His resurrection can be the source of hope and joy, even when life feels beyond repair. So, how do we find balance when life dishes up struggles? Andy talks about prioritizing our time to gain more energy for the things that bless our hearts. Serious topics, but Andy is hilarious! Don’t miss what this dynamic, down-to-earth communicator has to say!

Kristin Faith Evans returns to share her hacks for joy no matter the circumstances with Cathy. How do we keep the sunshine of joy when dark clouds threaten? God gave Kristin a second chance at life after a suicide attempt and she embraced life. Now a mental health therapist and mother of two special needs kids, Kristin understands what all moms need. Starting with a little compassion, please! Are folks sitting in the pews at church but feeling too inhibited to talk about what they face at home? Of course. We’ve all been there. How do we find joy in life's little moments? Kristen shares how preteen Bethany Grace, her little "miracle baby," teaches her joy daily. If you're feeling overwhelmed today, don't miss this uplifting episode!

Kristen Faith Evans joins Cathy to talk about the challenges of days spent at the hospital with her babies. All mommies feel isolated and in the dark sometimes. A normal mommy day is tough enough, but what about when your life gets complicated because your kids are in pain? How do you pull down oxygen for yourself so you can take care of the emergencies your family may face? Kristen will share what she’s learned with all the sparky, fun personality she brings to every conversation! Mommies and grandmoms are gonna love this gal! It is our privilege to introduce her to our listening friends!

CrossRiver Media Publisher and author, Tamara Clymer joins Cathy to talk about the battles women are facing in our culture right this minute. We’ll talk about what it means to be a battle worthy woman. No one needs to feel isolated or defeated. How do we build a battle ready marriage? Can we raise kids who stand firm in the face of life’s ultimate challenges? Is battle ready warrior mode part of your family plan? Tamara will offer hope, courage, and practical strategies for our families.

Tamara Clymer joins Cathy to talk about her husband’s brain cancer, glioblastoma. Their daily moment by moment turned everything upside down. How did God prepare her and her family before the big battle ever began? She offers insight on how to prepare our children for battles we can’t predict. This is one mighty lady, bold and tender simultaneously. You are going to LOVE her. If you want battle ready faith for your family, don’t miss this!

Author Michelle Lazurek joins Cathy to talk about how overwhelming and scary some of our adventures can be! As women we get a lot thrown at us. Strong, successful women almost universally struggle with control and perfectionism. A lot of times, we’re expected to do it all perfectly. And keep it all under control,” laughs Michelle. As if. Don’t miss this fast-paced, often funny conversation as Michelle gets real about what it means (and does NOT mean) to surrender!

Michelle Lazurek joins Cathy to talks about her experience with anxiety, depression, and panic. “(Panic is) that constant feeling of fear. That comes in waves,” describes Michelle. Plus, she also gently shares insight about how controlling moms pass debilitating perfectionism down to their children. And why in the world would we stay in panic mode when we can find freedom? With compassion and authenticity, Michelle shares her secrets. This is one tender, talented, smart, get-real, Jesus-loving gal you won’t want to miss!

In this episode, Anna shares a personal approach to instilling healthy ambition in our kids. She also tells Cathy privately what she wants to talk about after the break. Of course, our Producer Roy could’ve fixed her accidental comment. But we thought you might enjoy hearing the unvarnished ambition Anna has for YOU, our listening friend. Plus, Anna shares some amazing stuff about one of Cathy's favorite people in all the world—Anna's hubby. Today's podcast is devoted to instilling healthy ambition in our kids. Practical wisdom to understand what motivates our kids? You bet. You won't want to miss this one! Plus, there're easy ideas here you can try out TODAY with your own kiddos!

Author, Speaker, and Life Coach Deb DeArmond joins Cathy to talk about mother-in-law, daughter-in-law relationships. Plus, Deb offers practical tips for those drawn to mentoring. (Also, find more in the podcast we called: Family Fatigue: Building Back Better Families.)

Are there some big no-no’s to avoid for both sides of the mother-in-law, daughter-in-law relationship? You bet! Ever wish you could foster better relationships throughout all generations of your family? Of course. Don’t we all! You’ll love what this down-to-earth, funny expert shares when Cathy asks really personal questions. Don’t miss it!